5 Reasons Michael Vick Signing Means New York Jets Will Win AFC East

Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Jets have signed Michael Vick to a one-year, million deal. The acquisition implies that Geno Smith is not the guaranteed starter in 2014 and that there will be an open competition at the quarterback position. We know this because Vick explicitly said he would only sign with a team that would allow him to be a starter. The Vick signing is a smart move. In fact, here are five reasons why he will lead the Jets to an AFC East title.

5. Veteran Presence

Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

5. Veteran Presence

Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

The quarterback is a position of leadership whether the players buy into it or not. Unfortunately, Smith hasn’t earned the respect of his teammates, which means he can’t properly lead the team into battle. Vick is a weathered veteran who has seen it all. His presence on the roster will instantly improve the morale of the team, which will directly lead to success on the field.

4. Competition Makes Everyone Better

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

4. Competition Makes Everyone Better

Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

In Vick’s eyes, he will be the starter in 2014. However, the Jets have made it perfectly clear that he will have to compete against Smith in camp in order to prove he deserves the job. Regardless of what happens, the competition will make both quarterbacks better, which will benefit the entire team. No matter what happens New York will know for sure they have the best quarterback on the roster under center to begin the regular season.

3. Upgrade Over Geno Smith

Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

3. Upgrade Over Geno Smith

Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

In my opinion, Vick will be the top quarterback on the depth chart when September rolls around. Smith led New York to a 31st ranked pass offense. Not to mention, he tossed 21 interceptions to just 12 touchdowns. I get that he was just a rookie, but the fact is he’s not leading the team to the playoffs anytime soon. He did show athleticism and he will be the starter down the road, but Vick will be the upgrade for now.

2. Versatility Makes Offense Dangerous

Jim O'Connor-USA TODAY Sports

2. Versatility Makes Offense Dangerous

Jim O'Connor-USA TODAY Sports

Vick’s arm has improved in recent years as he’s more determined to move the chains through the air opposed to picking up first downs on the ground. That doesn’t mean he won’t run all over defenses when the opportunity presents itself. Vick’s versatility will give New York a similar edge they had last season with Smith but on a higher scale. Simply put, Vick has the ability to make the Jets’ offense very dangerous, as long as he can stay healthy.

1. Game Changer

Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

1. Game Changer

Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Most importantly, Vick is a game changer for the Jets in every way. He gives the team and the fans confidence that they have a fighting chance of winning the AFC East division. He has led teams to playoff wins under difficult circumstances and he has the necessary leadership skills to put the team first. He may be 34 years old and taken plenty of hits, but Vick came back to the NFL to prove himself and he plans to do just that with the Jets.

There is a lot of talent to be found on Day 3 of the NFL Draft, but sifting through the hundreds of prospects to find the right fit is challenging. Here are five sleepers the Saints should target. Read More